Ralph Adams

Ralph Adams, a long-time resident of Waco, Texas, entered his Heavenly home on September 3, 2025, at the age of 89. He passed peacefully in the house he had called home for nearly 60 years. A respected banker, devoted family man, and faithful servant of his community, Ralph lived a life grounded in faith, integrity, and kindness.

Born in Groesbeck, Texas, to Velma (Gidden) and Willie Lee Adams, Ralph grew up in central Texas, living in Delia, Thornton, and Prairie Hill, where he graduated from high school. It was there he met his high school sweetheart, Rita Joy (Dyer) Adams, whom he married in 1958. Together, they shared 49 years of love and devotion before her passing in 2007. Their marriage was a testimony of faith and commitment, and we rejoice knowing they are reunited in heaven.

Ralph graduated from Baylor University in 1958, an experience that shaped his love for learning, community, and Baylor basketball and football for the rest of his life.

He built a long and distinguished career in banking, spending 25 years with Waco Savings and Loan, other local financial institutions, and ultimately retiring from American Bank in 2011. Known for his honesty and commitment, he helped countless families buy their first homes and supported local businesses in growing and thriving. A trip to dinner with Ralph often meant encountering friends and acquaintances who would stop to greet him and share a brief conversation or moment of fellowship.

After retiring, Ralph embraced a passion for cooking and baking. He especially loved experimenting with new recipes and perfecting his pecan pie, crafted with pecans gathered from his own backyard. He was also known for his cowboy cookies, peanut butter cookies, and more—there were always freshly baked cookies waiting when anyone came to visit. Paw Paw’s house was the hub of food and family for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Ralph’s faith was central to his life. A long-time member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, he found strength and purpose in serving others. He was active in his community, delivering Meals on Wheels, serving on the Waco Symphony Board, working tirelessly as treasurer and board member for the Prairie Hill Cemetery Association, and contributing to numerous other civic organizations throughout his life.

Travel also brought Ralph joy. Colorado held a special place in his heart, with senior trips, family vacations, and annual ski trips becoming cherished traditions. A particularly meaningful highlight was a trip to Singapore and Hong Kong shared with his siblings and their spouses. Among his most special memories was celebrating his 80th birthday with family at the Biltmore Estate, where he enjoyed a short but meaningful walk on the Appalachian Trail.

More than anything, Ralph treasured his family. He was a devoted father to Karen Miller (Calvin), Darrell Adams (Pam), and Elaine Powell (Doug). He proudly celebrated the accomplishments of his six grandchildren—Andrew Miller (Ashley), Evan Miller, Morgan Johnson (Jared), Mason Adams (Kirsten), Aaron Kirk (Amanda), and Sarah Powell—never missing a graduation, whether it was at Baylor, Texas Tech, Auburn, or the University of Georgia. In recent years, his greatest delight was time spent with his five great grandchildren: Lily, Levi, and Lucas Johnson, and Cameron and Avery Adams. Holding the newest great-grandchild, born just weeks before his passing, brought him immeasurable joy.

Ralph is also survived by his siblings, Margaret Dickson, Nathan Adams, and Dan Adams; numerous nieces and nephews; and a lifetime of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Rita; and his brother, Thomas Adams.

The Adams family is especially grateful to the Arias family. Teresa and her family have been part of ours for more than 40 years, and their friendship and care have been a blessing beyond words.

Ralph’s memory will live on in his love for faith, family, community, and the simple joys of life—whether cheering at a ballgame, filling the house with hymns played by ear on the piano (not always perfectly on key, but always full of joy), or sharing his latest recipe with a smile.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd., Waco, Texas. A graveside service will follow on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Prairie Hill Cemetery in Prairie Hill, Texas.

To honor Ralph’s life, memorial gifts may be directed to Meals on Wheels Waco or to the Prairie Hill Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 123, Prairie Hill, TX 76678.